Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Questions I frequently get about coaching

Let’s start with a great definition from the source, the ICF (International Coach Federation):

ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential, which is particularly important in today’s uncertain and complex environment. Coaches honor the client as the expert in his or her life and work and believe every client is creative, resourceful and whole. Standing on this foundation, the coach's responsibility is to:

Discover, clarify, and align with what the client wants to achieve

Encourage client self-discovery

Elicit client-generated solutions and strategies

Hold the client responsible and accountable

This process helps clients dramatically improve their outlook on work and life, while improving their leadership skills and unlocking their potential.

It can depend on what you want to accomplish. I, as your coach, will talk to you about my process and will ask for your buy-in to that process. Basically, coaching is a conversation about you and your goals.
My goal as a coach is to understand your what (goals) and your why (motivation), so that I can challenge you, support you, hold you accountable, forward your action toward your goals, and celebrate your wins.

You may not know until you try it. I always like to have a conversation with someone first so that you can decide a few things:

Is coaching right for me?

Is Patty the right coach for me?

Is now the right time for coaching?

To determine whether you could benefit from coaching (from ICF):

Start by summarizing what you would expect to accomplish in coaching. When an individual has a fairly clear idea of the desired outcome, a coaching partnership can be a useful tool for developing a strategy for how to achieve that outcome with greater ease.

Since coaching is a partnership, ask yourself whether collaboration, other viewpoints, and new perspectives are valued.

Also, ask yourself whether you are ready to devote the time and the energy to making real changes.

If the answer is yes, then coaching may be a beneficial way to grow and develop.

If you are still not sure, you can ask me a question or set up a time to talk on the phone to determine if coaching is right for you now.

You can expect a safe place of attention, honesty, authenticity, confidentiality all while I listen, challenge, support and celebrate with you. At all times, this is about you. I will hold you accountable to whatever goals you create and commit to.

In my experience, what I love most about having a coach is the experience of having an hour where another person is totally dedicated and focused on me for our time together. I have found this to be a very powerful and rewarding experience.

That is ok and makes total sense, especially if this is not something you have experienced before. I had this same question too. This is why I like to have a conversation first so you are making the best decision for you now.

In addition, go here to send me any question not answered here. If you have a question, I guarantee someone else has it too, and with your help, I will continue to add to these FAQ’s. Thank-you for your input!

For all kinds of reasons. There are coaches out there who specialize in finances, leadership weight loss, wellness, mindfulness, career, transitions, etc. Pretty much any topic you can imagine. The process may be similar, but the coaches styles and backgrounds will vary, which is great for you.

Personally, I have hired coaches during times I wanted to figure out a new path, especially at transition points in my career. The coach was a great sounding board as well as someone who challenged me to get clear and get moving. Incredibly powerful to me during those times.